Does Migraine Attack Cause Cognitive Impairment and White Matter Lesions?
Abstract
Objectives: The aim of the study is to better assess the association between cognitive impairment during migraine attacks and white matter lesions, in conjunction with the relation of anatomical localizations in migraineurs with white matter lesions.
Materials and Methods: Study questionnaires were filled during routine medical visitations. In the context of cognitive functions evaluation, the standardized mini-mental status examination was utilized. Patient demographics and migraine characteristics were carefully recorded. The Migraine Disability Assessment Score, the Headache Impact Test, and the Mig-SCog questionnaires were used to test the ultimate severity of the migraine. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans were evaluated with the benefit of hindsight; for detecting and scoring white matter lesions, the Scheltens scoring system was brought into play. Depending upon perceived presence or absence of hyperintense lesions in brain MRI, the patients were divided into a pair of specific subsections.
Results: One hundred twenty female (86%) and 19 (14%) male patients were evaluated, respectively. Statistically significant differences were uncovered between the two groupings related to their intrinsic demographics, age, and educational levels. Patients demonstrating normal MRI had shorter disease duration when juxtaposed with the grouping possessed of white matter lesions. As per Mig-SCog questionnaires, cognitive complaints during migraine attacks were statistically significant within the tranche with white matter lesions. Interestingly, longer durations of migraine and higher Mig-SCog scores were correlated with deep white matter hyperintensities.
Conclusion: During instances of migraine attack, the underlying migraine pathophysiological process can significantly influence cognitive impairment and noticeable alterations to white matter.
Key Words: Migraine, Cognition, White Matter
Keywords
Migraine, Cognition, White Matter
Ethical Statement
Ethics Committee Approval: The study was approved by the Ankara City Hospital No: 1 Clinical Research Ethics Committee (date: 02.17.2021, decision no: E1/1476/2021).
Informed Consent: Retrospective cross-sectional study.
Peer-review: Externally peer-reviewed.
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